The main difference between Chartreuse and Lime is a subtle hue shift within the green family — the hue angle moves 30° between them, changing the perceived undertone. Chartreuse and Lime are often confused but have distinct differences in hue, saturation, and tone. Chartreuse (#7FFF00) and Lime (#00FF00) each suit different design contexts — understanding their differences helps you choose the right color for your project.
Four real design scenarios, with the recommended pick based on hue, saturation, and WCAG contrast.
Chartreuse is more saturated (100% HSL vs 100%) so it reads as bolder and more memorable at logo scale, while Lime can feel washed out when printed small.
Lime hits a 1.37:1 WCAG contrast against white — safer for text-heavy interfaces — where Chartreuse only reaches 1.30:1 and risks failing AA at small body sizes.
Chartreuse is a cool-leaning tone that flatters spring/summer collections and warmer skin undertones, while Lime leans cooler and is better suited to autumn/winter layering.
Chartreuse is the more muted of the two (100% saturation) and sits more calmly on large wall surfaces, while Lime's higher chroma can overwhelm a room when used beyond accent pieces.
Chartreuse (#7FFF00) is a medium, vivid green with a cool-leaning undertone — it feels balanced, versatile and bright, energetic, eye-catching.
Lime (#00FF00) is a medium, vivid green with a cool-leaning undertone — it feels balanced, versatile and bright, energetic, eye-catching.
Text legibility depends on the contrast ratio between foreground and background. WCAG 2.1 AA requires at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text; AAA requires 7:1. Use these numbers to choose accessible combinations for your design.
Each color has a dedicated page with shades, tints, CSS name, pairings, and color psychology.